What We Do

The Town of Hope Mills is working to protect our local waterways from being impacted by stormwater runoff. When it rains, pollutants such as fertilizer, oil, grease, and pet waste are picked up from the ground and carried through the storm drainage system. The stormwater system is not connected to a treatment system, so everything that flows through the system goes directly to the nearest water body.

Stormwater: What It Is & Where It Comes From

Stormwater is the flow of water that results from precipitation and occurs immediately following rainfall or snow melt. Also known as rainwater! When rain falls on impervious surfaces like roofs, driveways, sidewalks, roadways and parking lots it can't filter into the soil so it has to runoff.

Sources of Stormwater Pollution

There are many sources of stormwater pollution, including automotive fluids, brake dust, leaves, grass clippings, pet waste, cigarette butts, soil, and garbage. These materials are generated everyday and left on the ground. Combine them with stormwater and you create an unhealthy mess that contaminates our local waterways.

Impacts of Stormwater

Water Quality - When it rains, or when water is used by residents and business owners, pollutants are picked-up from the ground and carried into the nearest storm drain down the street. Storm drains are NOT connected to a treatment system. Everything that flows down the drain goes directly to the nearest stream, which carries it to the Cape Fear River, ultimately flowing into the Atlantic ocean. Polluted stormwater runoff is the number one cause of water pollution in North Carolina. Good water quality is important to all living creatures.

Damage to the Ecosystem - Polluted water damages the wildlife in creeks, streams, rivers and lakes. Dirt from erosion, also called sediment, covers up fish habitats and fertilizers can cause too much algae to grow, which also hurts wildlife by using up the oxygen they need to survive. Soaps and other chemicals damage plants and animals when they enter the water.

Flooding - The quantity of stormwater is also a problem. Stormwater can cause localized flooding in low areas and is a public safety concern when it stands on roadways.